A world of opportunity awaits
New admissions to the Law Society now have the chance to spread their wings, says Heather Mckendrick
When I began studying for my law degree, I somehow assumed that qualifying as a Scottish solicitor meant that your career would be based solely in Scotland.
I quickly discovered the error of my ways – even while at university many of my fellow students enjoyed semesters at universities across the world and returned with newfound knowledge and experiences that hugely enhanced their studies. Since starting work with the Law Society of Scotland, almost ten years ago, I have found out about many more international opportunities available to Scottish legal trainees and solicitors.
For example, it is possible for trainees to spend up to six months of their traineeships in a different jurisdiction, and we are currently promoting a trainee secondment opportunity in the UK Law Societies’ joint Brussels office, which will be an invaluable experience for the successful applicant.
We set high standards for solicitors and the time it takes to become fully qualified is usually about seven years, which includes a mixture of academic and practical learning. It is not a quick process and it is not easy. Everyone admitted at today’s ceremony has worked hard, put in the hours and made sacrifices. And, of course, their family and friends have supported them and many will be present today to help celebrate this exciting stage of their careers.
The great thing is that the rigorous qualification process means that Scottish solicitors are highly regarded and therefore usually in demand. On qualification, many solicitors will set about building their careers in Scotland, others will look for opportunities further afield.
Indeed, many accomplished and prominent Scottish solicitors have spent periods of their careers outside Scotland, broadening their legal knowledge and experience, which I am sure will be inspiring to those being admitted today.
Of course, we are all aware
that the impact of Brexit is as yet unquantifiable, but rest assured that my colleagues at the Law Society are working hard to promote the benefits of continued professional recognition for both Scottish and EU lawyers and their clients.
In an increasingly globalised profession, I would urge those of you who have aspirations to take
your knowledge and expertise to other jurisdictions, not to let this current lack of clarity dampen your enthusiasm or limit your horizons.
The Scottish legal profession can only be enhanced by a diverse membership with a wide range of experiences and influences.
I would encourage all the trainees and solicitors being admitted today to be aware of the variety
of career options available, to be ambassadors for the Scottish legal profession and take advantage of opportunities that come your way.
Celebrate and enjoy today – it really is an incredible achievement. Congratulations! n